Snow Moon Rises Tonight: A Winter Sky Spectacle

Catch the full Snow Moon rising in the eastern sky at sunset tonight. Named for the heavy snowfall common this time of year, February’s full moon reaches 100% illumination at 5:09 p.m. EST on Feb. 1, glowing directly opposite the sun.

As it lifts above the horizon, the Snow Moon may appear golden or orange, a stunning effect caused by Earth’s atmosphere scattering blue light. As the moon climbs higher, it fades into its familiar silvery glow, shining near Jupiter among the stars of Cancer the Crab.

This full moon is also known as the Bear Moon, marking the season when cubs are born, and the Hunger Moon, reflecting the lean winter months. Skywatchers can also spot bright ejecta rays on the lunar surface—remnants of ancient asteroid impacts, most notably from the massive Tycho crater near the moon’s south pole.

Moonrise and moonset times vary by location, so check locally for the best view—and don’t miss this winter sky moment.